Full Breakdown
Patriots vs. Colts Preseason Opener: Key Performances and Roster Implications
8/14/2026, 11:23:05 AM
Game Overview
In the first preseason contest of the 2026 NFL season, the New England Patriots hosted the Indianapolis Colts at Gillette Stadium. The matchup ended in a 13-13 tie after regulation, as preseason games do not feature overtime. Both teams rested most starters, giving depth players a chance to showcase their abilities. New England’s backup quarterback Tommy DeVito threw a 12-yard touchdown pass to tight end Kyle Williams, while the Colts’ former first-round pick Anthony Richardson ran for a one-yard touchdown but also committed two turnovers.
Player Spotlights
Patriots Backup Quarterback
Tommy DeVito completed 13 of 22 passes for 128 yards in the first half, marking his preseason debut with New England.
Colts Quarterback Anthony Richardson
Richardson was 11-of-14 for 145 yards and added a rushing touchdown, but lost a fumble and threw an interception that was credited to Patriots cornerback Kindle Vildor.
Patriots Running-Back Competition
With third-down back Terrell Jennings on season-ending IR, the race for the third running-back spot narrowed to seventh-round pick Jam Miller and second-year player Lan Larison. Miller logged 14 carries for 55 yards, including a 15-yard gain; Larison recorded six receptions for 38 yards and contributed on kickoff returns.
Cornerback Christian Gonzalez Injury
Cornerback Christian Gonzalez was absent from pre-game warmups and the joint practice session with Indianapolis. Head coach Mike Vrabel confirmed that Gonzalez was “physically unavailable for the practice.”
Data & Statistics
| Player | Passing | Rushing | Touchdowns | Turnovers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthony Richardson (Colts) | 11/14, 145 yds | 6 carries, 53 yds, 1 TD | 1 | 1 INT, 1 fumble |
| Tommy DeVito | 13/22, 128 yds | — | 1 | — |
| Jam Miller (Patriots RB) | — | 14 carries, 55 yds | — | — |
| Lan Larison (Patriots RB) | — | 6 rec, 38 yds; KR | — | — |
The Colts committed four total turnovers, while the Patriots recorded two interceptions (Vildor and John Saunders Jr.).
Official Statements & Responses
Vrabel noted that the team used the preseason contest to evaluate depth players across multiple positions, including the third-down running-back role and backup quarterback duties.
Verbatim Quotes
What’s Next
The Indianapolis Colts will host the Atlanta Falcons in their next preseason game, and the New England Patriots will welcome the Philadelphia Eagles shortly thereafter. Both teams will continue to assess roster candidates ahead of the regular season.
